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Latrobe Crime Watch News Letter Latrobe Police Service Area July 2013Coming Events, Message from Inspector Mick West, June Neighbourhood Watch Crime Reports, Hot Spots, New Police Uniforms, Web Sites for Emergencies. By Malcolm Lawrence - 23rd July 2013 - Back to News Latrobe Crime Watch News
Latrobe Police Service Area
Neighbourhood Watch Creating Safer Communities
July 2013
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Emergency 000, Mobiles 112, State the service you want – Police, Ambulance or Fire.
Police: Boolarra 5169 6222, Churchill 5122 1790, Moe 5127 2222, Morwell 5131 5000
Traralgon 5174 0900
Crime Stoppers
1800 333 000
Neighbourhood Watch & Safer Communities
Unit – Latrobe PSA, L/S/C Brett Godden, 5131 5085, 0400 050 749.
Facebook: Senior Constable Brett
Child Protection 13 12 78, Consumer Affairs 5116 5701, Dept Primary Industry 136186.
Dispute Settlement Centre 1800 658 528, Latrobe City 1300 367 700.
Nurse on Call 1300 606 024, Poisons Information 13 11 26,
VicRoads 131170
COMING EVENTS: OPEN INVITATION TO ALL LATROBE VALLEY RESIDENTS
Wed 24th July - Churchill District and Community Assoc Meeting - Churchill Community Hall - 7 pm
Monday 5th August - Moe/Newborough Town Meeting - Moe RSL – Albert Street, Moe – 7pm
Tuesday 6th August - Traralgon Town Meeting - Traralgon Police Station, Kay St, Traralgon – 7pm
Wednesday 7th August - Morwell Town Meeting – Morwell RSL – Elgin Street, Morwell – 7pm
Wednesday 14th August - Yallourn North Town Meeting - Yallourn North Bowling Club–7 pm
HOT SPOTS – POLICE NEED THE PUBLIC’S HELP
THEFT FROM MOTOR CARS IN TRARALGON
So far this month there have been ten incidents of thefts from cars reported in the Traralgon Police response zone. All incidents have occurred at night. The thefts occurred in Alexandra Ave, Malibu Pl, Heighton Crt, Booth Crt, Sundale Rd, Trivalve Crt, Coster St and Grey St. Amongst the items stolen were toolboxes, LED driving lights, coins and cash and a camera. In all except one of the ten incidents the vehicle was unlocked.
Latrobe Police are appealing for the public's assistance in two ways. Firstly, ensure you lock your car at all times when leaving it unattended, including when it is parked in your own driveway.
For crime prevention tips to prevent becoming the victim in a theft from motor vehicle incident visit the Victoria Police web site at http://www.police.vic.gov.au/content.asp?Document_ID=9562
Secondly, police urge any other person who may have information related to these incidents to contact Crime Stoppers on: 1800 333 000 or visit: www.crimestoppers.com.au or ring Latrobe Criminal Investigation Unit on 5131 7028.
MESSAGE FROM LATROBE INSPECTOR MICK WEST
WE ARE SEEKING LOCAL POLICE RECRUITS
Victoria Police is currently recruiting and I wish to strongly encourage interested Latrobe Valley citizens to get their applications in. If you are looking for a career where you can make a difference, that is highly rewarding, community-orientated, challenging and financially secure, then this is the job for you. I can promise you there is never a dull moment.
Locally, we are about to lose a number of junior members who are heading back to Melbourne to continue their careers. These are members who commit to country policing for two years and then move on. Once their time is up some head back to the city lights and their extended families.
In Latrobe we put a lot of effort into training these young members and we would like to keep them and many fall in love with the area and stay. However, the best way to retain members would be if they were recruited from the Valley in the first place.
Once training at the Police Academy is completed, recruits can come back home to us and make their careers down here. This would be a great thing for the local community in the long term.
When working at large country police stations such as Morwell, Moe and Traralgon, you will have opportunities that are not usually available to your city counterparts. You will have opportunities to perform temporary duties at the Criminal Investigation Unit, Family Violence Unit and the Highway Patrol. You may be given the chance to perform duties at holiday locations in our division such as Cowes and at the Prom and work the Australian Motor Cycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island.
An article on police recruiting appears later in this newsletter. Whether you are young and embarking on your working career or an older local looking for a change of career, we want you. If you are committed to your home community we will do everything we can to assist you through the application process and in coming back to us.
In short, we will assist you to assist us in making Latrobe a better place in which to live.
JUNE NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH/SAFER COMMUNITIES GROUP REPORTS
BOOLARRA/YINNAR DISTRICT CRIME REPORT
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 1 for June (2 May) - Between 11th and 15th June unknown offenders damaged a vehicle parked outside an address in Littleton St, Yinnar, in the process of stealing a set of lights from the vehicle.
BURGLARY - 1 for June (Nil May) - Between 18th and 20th June unknown offenders entered a shed in Yinnar-Driffield Rd, Yinnar. This is the second time this shed has been burgled however this time nothing appears to be stolen.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 2 for June (1 May) - One of the thefts is mentioned in the property damage report whilst between 9th and 11th June offenders stole both rear taillights from a vehicle parked in Austin Ave, Boolarra.
THEFT - Nil for June (1 May)
CHURCHILL and DISTRICT MEETING and CRIME REPORT (INCLUDES JEERALANG)
ASSAULTS - 2 for June (6 May) - In both incidents an offender has been charged with assault related offences.
ARSON - 1 for June (Nil May) - One offender charged with criminal damage by arson.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 9 for June (5 May) - One offender charged with criminal damage. A number of the damages relate to vehicle windows being damaged by various means. A concern for police is two incidents in Monash Way where rocks were thrown at passing vehicles. Police will be conducting more patrols in the area.
BURGLARY - 1 for June (3 May) - Overnight 12th June unknown offenders broke into the Churchill Cricket Club by smashing a window and stealing alcohol and confectionary.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for June (2 May) - One offender charged.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for June (3 May) - The offender charged with theft from motor vehicle has also been charged with theft of motor vehicle amongst other charges.
THEFT - 4 for June (3 May) - Two offenders charged. Between 5th and 19th June a generator was stolen from a rural property in Rickard Dr whilst a tyre was stolen from a vehicle which had broken down on the street in Canterbury Way.
MOE/NEWBOROUGH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
PREVIOUS ISSUES: Letter of thanks for donation from the SES. A discussion was held on the recent spate of graffiti in Newborough area.
ROBBERY - 2 for June (Nil May) - On 22nd June the victim was walking through the grounds of a school in Albert St when he was hit by an unknown offender and his wallet stolen. On 30th June a male was assaulted in Wirraway St and had cigarettes stolen.
ASSAULT - 17 for June (14 May) - Fifteen offenders charged. Police are following up suspects in relation to assaults in Saxtons Dr and Newark Ave on 20th June. A female was assaulted by another female in Albert St on 16th June whilst a male was slapped by another male outside Coles on the same day.
ARSON - 1 for June (Nil May) - Overnight 16th June unknown offenders set a trampoline alight in a front yard in Jubilee St.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 30 for June (32 May) - Two offenders charged. The majority of damages involved windows of residences (15) and businesses (7) being smashed by rocks or items thrown at them. A series of damages were committed in the Elizabeth St, Queen St and Wirraway St area overnight 19th June.
BURGLARY - 12 for June (9 May) - The burglaries during June were mostly committed on residential premises with windows being the most common point of entry. Sheds and garages (both unlocked and locked) feature predominantly amongst the burglaries with chainsaws and tools stolen.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 10 for June (6 May) - Eight of the thefts occurred in residential driveways or streets. A set of number plates was stolen from a vehicle in the driveway of a residence in Albert St. The plates were replaced with a set that was stolen earlier. Between 19th and 22nd June unknown offenders entered an unlocked vehicle behind a business and stole a GPS unit and tracker.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 for June (Nil May) - The only vehicle stolen during June was an unregistered Yamaha LB80 Chappy motorcycle from Western Ave, Newborough. It is still outstanding.
THEFT (OTHER) - 12 for June (8 May) - One offender charged. Overnight 29th June two letterboxes were stolen from residences in Murray Rd and Law St Newborough whilst another was stolen from a residence in Drew St overnight 18th June. Four of the thefts relate to phones being left behind at a shop or on benches at parties. Police advise against the practice of putting a phone down whilst doing another activity and leaving it unattended.
MORWELL MEETING and CRIME REPORT(INCLUDES TYERS)
PREVIOUS ISSUES: Discussions were held on involving the younger community in NHW through the Latrobe’s eyewatch page; parking on nature strips; continuing graffiti; and dangerous riding by users of Motorised Mobility Devices on footpaths.
ROBBERY - Nil for June (4 May)
ASSAULT - 23 for June (19 May) - Twenty one offenders charged. Police are following up two identified suspects for assaults in Hazelwood Rd on 25th June and at the Morwell Railway Station on 19th June.
ARSON - 1 for June (4 May) - One offender charged with criminal damage by arson.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 17 for June (27 May) - Eight offenders charged. Police are following up identified suspects in relation to incidents in Hazelwood Rd and Commercial Rd. A number of the offenders charged with property damage are the same as those charged with assault related offences.
BURGLARY - 15 for June (15 May) - Two offenders charged with false report during June whilst four others have been charged with burglary. One will face five charges. Overnight 8th June Commercial Rd Primary School was broken into with a number of iPads stolen.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 13 for June (8 May) - The offender charged with five counts of burglary has also been charged with theft from motor vehicle involving the theft of two registration plates. Overnight 10th June three thefts occurred in Franklin St, Beatrice Crt and Crinigan Rd with iPods, coins and a first aid kit stolen from three unlocked vehicles.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 5 for June (6 May) - Five offenders charged with three also being charged with attempted theft of motor vehicle. One of the offenders is the offender charged with burglary. All vehicles stolen during June have been recovered.
THEFT - 11 for June (12 May) - Seven offenders charged with the offender charged with burglary and theft of motor vehicle also facing two counts of theft. A number of roadwork signs were stolen from a work site on Hourigan Rd between 20th - 26th June.
TRARALGON MEETING and CRIME REPORT
(INCLUDES GLENGARRY, TOONGABBIE, HAZELWOOD NORTH, TRARALGON SOUTH)
PREVIOUS ISSUES: A discussion was held on the instigation and success of Latrobe’s eyewatch page.
ROBBERY - Nil for June (3 May)
ASSAULT - 29 for June (28 May) – 27 offenders charged with police following up identified suspects in relation to assaults in a taxi on 2nd June, an attempted threat to kill at Stocklands Car park on 7th June and an assault in Gilmour St on 26th June.
ARSON - 1 for June (2 May) - Between 28th June and 1st July unknown offenders set two toilets alight in the public toilets at the Traralgon Showgrounds.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 64 for June (43 May) - Ten offenders charged. Police are investigating a large number of damages to vehicles in residential driveways and streets. Evidence suggests the occupants of a dark blue Ford Falcon sedan have been firing rocks or ball bearings from a sling shot at windows of vehicles or houses.
BURGLARY - 12 for June (10 May) - One offender charged. The Tyers Primary School and Pre School were broken into overnight 24th June with nothing stolen from the school however, a camera was stolen from the preschool. A house under construction in Hammersmith Circuit was broken into twice on 15th and 16th June with a range hood, cook top, sink, dishwasher and oven stolen over the two days.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 26 for June (18 May) - Overnight 27th June unknown offenders entered two vehicles parked in driveways in Dranes Rd and stole a wallet and fuel card. Three vehicles at an address in Christian Rise were entered overnight 18th June. Whilst a purse was the only item stolen the victims had left keys in the ignitions of two of the vehicles.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 5 for June (2 May) - One offender charged with two of the vehicles located. The vehicles which remain outstanding are an unregistered Honda CRF450 motorcycle red/white in colour which was stolen on 10/06/13 from Stockdale Rd; ZKS498 a 1996 Toyota Landcruiser green in colour stolen 13/06/13 from Jackson St and ; YRT434 a 2004 Ford Territory silver in colour stolen 30/06/13 from the Latrobe Regional Hospital car park.
THEFT - 12 for June (13 May) - Police are following up a suspect for a theft in Grey St on 19th June. A number of the thefts involve mobile phones, wallets or purses being left behind.
YALLOURN NORTH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
ASSAULT - Nil for June (1 May)
ARSON - Nil for June (1 May)
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 2 for June (Nil May) - A rubbish bin on the side of Tanjil East Rd was destroyed by unknown means overnight 17th June whilst police are making follow up enquiries into a fire at Yallourn Power Station on 21st June.
BURGLARY - Nil for June (2 May)
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - Nil for June (2 May)
WEB SITES FOR EMERGENCIES
In recent years Gippslanders have had to weather numerous emergency situations; earthquakes, bushfires, storms and most recently floods.
In times of emergency many people choose to ring 000 in an attempt to find out information. This not only clogs the emergency telephone system, it can also delay help from emergency services getting to those who are genuinely in need of assistance.
All 000 Control Rooms (Police, CFA, SES and Ambulance) provide reactive coordination services. In other words, they take the call and dispatch responding units to where they are needed. They do not collate and save the information for public dissemination. That is the responsibility of other divisions within those organisations, such as Media Liaison Units.
It is vital you remember 000 IS NOT AN INFORMATION SERVICE – IT IS AN EMERGENCY RESPONSE SERVICE.
Next time you find yourself in a situation where you need information rather than emergency assistance, you may find the information you need at the following websites:
ABC RADIO GIPPSLAND: http://www.abc.net.au/gippsland/emergencies/?ref=nav Gippsland’s emergency radio broadcaster. Find current emergencies listed, information on preparing for emergencies and links to other sites.
BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY (BOM): WEATHER WARNINGS: http://www.bom.gov.au/ At this site you can find weather warnings for the whole of Australia. Select the state you wish to see and follow the prompts. You can also find the location of other radars across the nation. For Gippslanders, go to the 128km Bairnsdale Radar where you can view the satellite pictures of weather fronts coming into or across the Gippsland weather district within 128km from Bairnsdale. You can expand the distance covered to 256 km or 512 km.
COUNTRY FIRE AUTHORITY: http://www.cfa.vic.gov.au At this site you can find the CFA’s bans, restrictions and fire ratings and find CFA warnings and current incidents.
ELDERS WEATHER www.eldersweather.com.au/index.jsp On this page if you program in a postcode or a town name you will get an area/town specific weather forecast.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION VICTORIA: http://emergencyvic.info/ At this site view locations of current incidents across the state. Information is added by the relevant agency such as CFA, MFB, Department of Sustainability and the State Emergency Service. Zoom in on the map to find out if anything is going on in your area.
NEIGHBOURHOOD SAFER PLACES (CFA): http://www.saferplaces.cfa.vic.gov.au Search for Neighbourhood Safer Places closest to you by municipality, township or postcode.
SEISMOLOGY RESEARCH CENTRE (EARTHQUAKES): http://www.esands.com/Home/Seismology_Research_Centre.html View earthquake information worldwide and report what you feel when an earthquake strikes at http://www.esands.com/Earthquake_Report.html
EYEWATCH - LATROBE POLICE SERVICE AREA If you are signed up to Facebook search for eyewatch - Latrobe Police Service Area to find the latest information for Victoria Police’s Latrobe Police Service Area. Find the page at
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eyewatch-Latrobe-Police-Service-Area/131624007022562
STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE VICTORIA: http://www.ses.vic.gov.au/ View the latest emergency warnings for Victoria and get information on preparing your home for an emergency.
VICROADS: http://vicroads.vic.gov.au At this site you can find you can find road closures and traffic alerts including maps. Zoom in to enlarge the map to find road closures in your area. You can also find the latest travel and road conditions including road closures. Of course, you can find licensing and registration information as well.
VICTORIAN SNOW REPORT: http://www.vicsnowreport.com.au/ Find out where snow is falling at Gippsland’s Mt Baw Baw and Mt St Gwinear as well Victoria’s other snow resorts. Find out what runs are open, check actual conditions on the snow cams and find out if you need to fit chains to your vehicle.
WEATHER CHANNEL: http://www.weatherchannel.com.au/WeatherMap#VIC Takes you to the Victorian weather map. You can also view weather information throughout the world.
Of course, you do not have to limit yourself to the internet to gain emergency information. Do not forget the media.
A major cog in the delivery of Gippsland emergency information comes through our local media, television and print, but particularly radio. All stations provide a degree of information but in an emergency we recommend tuning into ABC Gippsland.
ABC Gippsland, at 100.7 FM and at 828 on the AM dial, delivers official warnings and alerts and publishes emergency information sourced from ABC Local Radio and ABC News. During an emergency ABC Gippsland will interrupt, and at times suspend, State-wide and Nation-wide programs to offer a local service outside of normal broadcasting hours. As information comes to hand it will broadcast updates and instructions from emergency agencies.
TELEPHONE SERVICES – There are many services that can provide the information you need without ringing the 000 emergency services. Here are a few of them.
National Relay Service - 1800 555 677
VicRoads Road closure information – 131170
Victorian Bushfire Information Line - 1800 240 667
OUT WITH THE OLD IN WITH THE NEW - NEW UNIFORM COMING TO LATROBE
As Victoria Police’s new uniform is progressively rolled out across the state, you will gradually come to see Latrobe officers wearing it.
There are two styles of uniform, the operational uniform and the office uniform. A ceremonial uniform is issued for police of officer rank.
This is the first major change to the uniform since police went from the black tunic and pants to the blue uniform 32 years ago.
The new uniform is a modern, durable, wash and wear fabric and has more pockets for officers to carry the equipment they readily need in performing operational police duties. The uniform is designed to be non-gender specific.
The first members kitted-out will be graduates from the police academy.
The first person to wear the new uniform in the Latrobe Valley is police academy graduate Constable Josh Kaestner, who commenced general duties work at the Traralgon Police Station earlier this month. Josh’s father isSergeant Steve Kaestner from Morwell Police Station.
It is predicted Steve, and all other Latrobe members, should be wearing the new uniform by the end of the year.
CRIME STOPPERS
Police remind the community if they see something suspicious they should ring 000 or if they have information in relation to an offence contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: malcolml@dcsi.net.au
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Morwell MP Martin Cameron has renewed calls for PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, citing a 49 percent increase in Gippsland public transport crime between 2021 and 2024. - Australia Post invests in Morwell parcel facility, boosting Latrobe City jobs, economic diversification and future growth opportunities
Australia Post has begun construction of a 10,000-square-metre parcel facility in Morwell, consolidating regional operations, supporting local jobs and strengthening Latrobe City’s economic diversification and investment opportunities. - Nationals target Premier Ben Carroll over undelivered Latrobe Valley manufacturing jobs and broken election promises
The Nationals accused Premier Ben Carroll of failing to deliver 500 promised SEA Electric manufacturing jobs in Morwell, criticising Labor’s Latrobe Valley transition and economic record. - Martin Cameron seeks government answers over delays threatening Latrobe Magnesium's commercial project and regional investment
Martin Cameron is pressing the Victorian government over delays affecting Latrobe Magnesium’s commercial project, warning investment and hundreds of Latrobe Valley jobs could be lost. - Hazelwood North CFA to receive long-awaited new station under Nationals and Liberals' Latrobe Valley infrastructure commitment
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged a new three-bay Hazelwood North CFA station, replacing inadequate facilities and supporting volunteers through increased regional infrastructure funding. - Melina Bath accuses Labor of failing to curb illicit tobacco crime and escalating violence across regional Victoria
The Nationals have criticised Labor over ongoing illicit tobacco crime, citing alleged abductions, violence, intimidation and suspected illegal stores, while questioning Victoria’s tobacco licensing scheme effectiveness. - Regional Development $750,000 investment expands employment and education support for 120 Latrobe Valley young people through 2028
The Victorian government is investing a further $750,000 in the Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley Program, supporting 120 young people with employment, education, training and independence opportunities through 2028. - Martin Cameron backs Regional road funding to fix dangerous, neglected Latrobe Valley roads and bridges
A proposed $288 million Country Roads and Bridges program would give Latrobe City $1.5 million annually for four years to repair and upgrade local roads and bridges. - New Bairnsdale worker accommodation nears completion, boosting healthcare workforce capacity across East Gippsland communities
Bairnsdale new 28-apartment healthcare worker accommodation is nearing completion, providing affordable housing for up to 32 staff and strengthening regional health services while supporting local jobs and investment. - Better Place Australia opens new Traralgon office to expand family support services across Gippsland amid rising community needs
Better Place Australia has opened a new Traralgon office to expand family support services across Gippsland, addressing challenges including family separation, violence, financial stress and child vulnerability. - New Heart Morass watering infrastructure strengthens Gippsland Lakes wetland health and protects freshwater flows for future generations
New watering infrastructure at Heart Morass enables controlled freshwater flows, reducing salinity and supporting wetland health, wildlife habitat and long-term resilience across the Gippsland Lakes. - New Bairnsdale footpath to improve access between Princes Highway and key health and community facilities
A new 280-metre concrete footpath will link Bairnsdale’s Princes Highway with key health and community facilities, improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians, with construction beginning September 21 and lasting six weeks. - New Lakes Entrance fire station prioritised ahead of 2026 state election
Council is urging the Victorian government to fund a new Lakes Entrance CFA station, replacing the 90-year-old facility to improve emergency response, safety, capacity and regional resilience. - New drinking fountains improve free water access across Sale's popular recreation facilities
Sale's major recreation facilities now offer improved free drinking water access, with new fountains at Aqua Energy, Port of Sale and Gippsland Regional Sports Complex, supporting hydration and reusable bottle use. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - East Gippsland's new disability network brings diverse community voices together to help shape council decisions and services
East Gippsland’s new Disability Network has attracted 33 expressions of interest, bringing together people with disability, carers, families and sector representatives to help shape Council decisions and improve accessibility. - Labor announces four new regional early learning centres for 2029, expanding access to kindergarten and long daycare places
Labor will open four new Early Learning Victoria centres in Alexandra, Drouin, Hamilton and Seymour from 2029, providing more than 400 childcare and kindergarten places across regional Victoria. - Yarram Pool installs new accessibility pod to improve safety, comfort and inclusion for residents with mobility challenges
Yarram Pool has installed a new accessibility pod following community feedback, providing safer, more comfortable water access for residents with mobility challenges ahead of the summer swimming season. - Moondarra Reservoir gains new pathway and native garden beds, enhancing recreation, accessibility and Aboriginal cultural connections
Gippsland Water has completed a new pathway and native garden beds at Moondarra Reservoir, improving visitor access, enhancing recreation and incorporating local flora, Aboriginal cultural information and community collaboration. - East Gippsland welcomes 27 new Australians from 13 countries at citizenship ceremony on Australian Citizenship Day
East Gippsland welcomed 27 new Australians from 13 countries at a citizenship ceremony in Lucknow, celebrating Australian Citizenship Day and the diversity new citizens bring to the community. - Foster CFA volunteers await new station funding despite site and lease arrangements already being in place
Foster CFA volunteers continue waiting for a new station, with a site and long-term lease secured. Danny O’Brien is calling for government funding to begin construction. - Nationals and Liberals pledge 10 new technical colleges, delivering hands-on training for 5,000 Victorian students
The Nationals and Liberals plan 10 new Technical Colleges across Victoria, providing 5,000 secondary students with hands-on vocational training and pathways into in-demand careers, including a new college in Gippsland. - Bass Coast invites community feedback on new decade-long nature positive strategy for environmental protection and restoration until 15 October 2026
Bass Coast Council is seeking community feedback on its draft Nature Positive Strategy, guiding environmental protection, restoration and enhancement across the region over the next decade. - East Gippsland Council welcomes Nationals’ pledge for new Lakes Entrance CFA Station after years of advocacy for improved emergency services
East Gippsland Council has welcomed The Nationals’ pledge for a new Lakes Entrance CFA station, addressing outdated facilities, improving emergency response capabilities and supporting volunteer firefighters after more than 20 years of advocacy. - Bass Coast Shire Council seeks feedback on new waste charge proposal with various session dates in September and feedback closing on 21 October 2026
Bass Coast Shire Council is consulting on a proposed waste charge for all rateable properties, aiming to fairly share costs and improve transparency around community waste services. - Labor invests $120,000 to modernise Traralgon Library with new study pods and improved community spaces
Harriet Shing joined Latrobe City Mayor Cr Gibson and councillors to announce a $120,000 library upgrade, jointly funded by government and council - Regional hospitals face staffing and funding pressures as new nurse-to-patient ratios take effect across Gippsland health services
New nurse-to-patient ratios have passed Parliament, with Gippsland hospitals reclassified, but workforce shortages and funding pressures raise concerns over implementation and patient care. - The Nationals promise apprenticeship training cost cuts, new technical colleges and toll relief to support Gippsland tradies and businesses
The Nationals propose a $115 million apprenticeship fund, 10 new technical colleges for 5,000 students, and a $50 weekly toll cap to reduce costs, support Gippsland tradies and strengthen regional businesses - East Gippsland targets Canberra visitors in new Spring Tourism Campaign, destination marketing and supporting local businesses
East Gippsland Shire Council has launched a Canberra-focused spring tourism campaign, testing evidence-led marketing strategies while attracting shoulder-season visitors and supporting local businesses through targeted promotion. - Traralgon Netball Association scores $220,000 boost for new court lighting, creating more opportunities for players and night games
Traralgon’s Agnes Brereton Reserve has received $220,000 for new LED lighting across 10 netball courts, helping more than 60 teams train, compete at night, expand development programs and create greater opportunities for players of all ages. - Bairnsdale Library unveils upgraded outdoor spaces with new shade structures, refreshed courtyard and improved facilities for community activities
Bairnsdale Library has unveiled upgraded outdoor spaces featuring two louvred shade structures, refreshed courtyard landscaping and vegetable beds, supported by $79,104 in Living Libraries Infrastructure Program funding. - East Gippsland Council welcomes Coalition’s $120M pledge for new Bairnsdale Hospital emergency department and expanded patient capacity
East Gippsland Shire Council has welcomed the Coalition’s $120 million pledge for Bairnsdale Hospital’s new emergency department, which will expand treatment spaces, ambulance bays and hospital beds to meet growing healthcare demand. - Regional hospitals face staffing and funding pressures as new nurse-to-patient ratios take effect across Gippsland health services
East Gippsland Shire Council is installing two louvered roofs at Bairnsdale Library, improving shade, weather protection and outdoor activities, with works expected to take two weeks. - Gippsland Water reports progress on major projects, renewable energy and community engagement commitments
Gippsland Water’s 2026 Community Report highlights progress on major infrastructure projects, achieving 100 per cent renewable energy, emergency support initiatives and increased community engagement through its Sounding Board. - Wellington Shire Council backs West Sale Airport for proposed Gippsland Police Academy training campus
Wellington Shire Council will advocate for a Gippsland Police Academy at West Sale Airport, citing existing infrastructure, the former TAFE campus, expansion capacity and potential regional jobs, investment and training opportunities. - Mobile Service Centres bringing government support across South Gippsland communities an August and September
Australian government Mobile Service Centres will visit 12 South Gippsland communities, offering Medicare, Centrelink, myGov and Veterans’ Affairs assistance, with accessible facilities and Wi-Fi. - Nathan Kearsley and Jill Colson appointed as Baw Baw Shire new directors following recent organisational restructure
Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Nathan Kearsley and Jill Colson as new directors following a restructure reducing its executive leadership team from five to three. - Baw Baw Shire Council appoints Anthony Petherbridge as third new director following organisational restructure
Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Anthony Petherbridge as Director Community and Planning Services following its restructure, joining two new directors and bringing extensive strategic planning and executive-level local government experience. - Put your phone down and connect through art at Cowes’ new Analog Art Club starting 1st of December 2026
Analog Art Club launches at Berninneit Art Gallery, Cowes, on 1 December, offering free monthly phone-free mornings with art, creative workshops and conversations led by artists and curators. Registration is essential. - Bass Coast Shire Council seeks community feedback to shape safer roads through New Road Safety Strategy Plan until 10 September 2026
Bass Coast Shire Council is inviting residents to help shape its new Road Safety Strategy through community workshops and an online survey, aiming to reduce crashes and improve safety for all road users across the shire. - Nationals and Liberals pledge PSOs at Morwell and Moe Stations, mobile CCTV trailers and 24-Hour Moe Police Station reopening
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, mobile CCTV across the Latrobe Valley, and restoring Moe Police Station to 24-hour operations under their community safety plan. - East Gippsland Shire Council consults service street businesses on proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation and Nicholson street mall improvements
East Gippsland Shire Council is consulting Service Street businesses on a proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation, while Nicholson Street Mall upgrades aim to improve safety and amenity. - Bass Coast Council launches mobile business pilot, creating new trading opportunities across six locations
Bass Coast Council is inviting mobile businesses to apply for a 12-month trading pilot across six locations in Phillip Island, Anderson and Inverloch, with applications closing 27 November 2026. - East Gippsland Shire Council seeks $4M election funding to unlock 600 new homes through Lucknow drainage upgrades
East Gippsland Council is seeking $4 million for Lucknow drainage upgrades, enabling up to 600 new homes while addressing flooding and supporting sustainable growth. - The Nationals blame Labor government after 84 more jobs cut at Maryvale paper mill in Latrobe Valley
Nationals MP Martin Cameron blamed the Victorian Labor government after Opal announced 84 job cuts at Maryvale, arguing forestry policy and timber supply failures caused ongoing workforce losses. - Darren Chester joined Wellington Shire representatives to welcome 57 new citizens at The Wedge ceremony
Wellington Shire welcomed 57 new Australian citizens at The Wedge, with Federal Member Darren Chester and council representatives celebrating their milestone and contributions to Gippsland communities. - Construction begins on Warragul’s $30M Library and Learning Centre, delivering new community, cultural and co-working spaces by 2028
Construction has begun on Warragul’s $30 million Library and Learning Centre, featuring library, cultural, meeting and co-working spaces, with opening planned for early 2028. - East Gippsland Council introduces free Payble online service offering ratepayers flexible, convenient and automatic payment options for rates
East Gippsland Council has introduced Payble, a free, secure online service allowing ratepayers to automate payments, choose flexible schedules, check balances and manage rates conveniently. - Gippsland commuters stranded after V/Line services end early, prompting calls for reliable regional rail services
Melina Bath criticised Gippsland rail disruptions after AFL fans were stranded following an early service cutoff, calling for reliable regional transport and promising 1,110 additional seats on Traralgon and Bairnsdale services. - Wellington Shire Council retains in-house library service following review confirming best value for community needs
Wellington Shire Council has endorsed the outcome of its Wellington Libraries Service Review, confirming library services will continue to be delivered as is. - Moe Town Hall seeks resident organisation to activate historic venue through regular community arts programs until 30 September 2026
Latrobe City Council has opened expressions of interest for an organisation to establish an ongoing residency at Moe Town Hall, delivering regular arts, cultural and community activities while keeping the venue accessible. - Live and Loud at GPAC brings AFL Grand Final action, family fun and entertainment to Traralgon on 26 September 2026
Latrobe City Council will host Live and Loud at GPAC on September 26, featuring family activities, entertainment, a ticketed musical-acrobat performance and free live screening of the 2026 AFL Grand Final. - Moe Inline Hockey Championships secure five-year council funding, expected to boost $15M into local economy through visitor spending
Latrobe City Council will provide $100,000 over five years to support Moe’s Australian Inline Hockey Club Championships, expected to generate $15 million locally through visitor spending and accommodation. - Cr John White recognised for 10 Years of dedicated service representing East Gippsland communities on council
East Gippsland Councillor John White has been recognised for 10 years of service, including two terms as Mayor, advocating for local priorities and representing communities across government levels. - Darren Chester says Labor's national firearms buyback unfairly targets law-abiding regional firearm owners instead of addressing crime and security
Nationals representatives Gemma Rendell, Darren Chester and Bridget McKenzie joined East Gippsland firearm owners in Bairnsdale, opposing Labor's buyback and further restrictions while supporting lawful firearm use in regional communities. - Local operators Samantha Holmes and Brett Savory take over Eagle Point Foreshore Hub, bringing new food offering and fresh investment
Samantha Holmes and Brett Savory have taken over Eagle Point Foreshore Hub, renaming its café The Nest, offering local produce, dining, takeaway and catering while supporting community connections. - Morwell’s Gippsland Sports and Entertainment Park celebrates major $45M redevelopment and new regional sporting facilities
Morwell’s Gippsland Sports and Entertainment Park celebrates a $45 million redevelopment, featuring five playing surfaces, 1,200 seats, upgraded facilities and new event spaces. - Melina Bath seeks Labor explanation on Gippsland children face specialist dental service cuts, longer waits and costly travel for treatment
Melina Bath says Gippsland children face longer waits after regional pediatric dental services were cut, forcing families to travel to Melbourne for specialist treatment. - Walhalla Museum launches virtual reality experience bringing gold mining history to life for visitors through new Regional Tourism upgrade project
Walhalla Museum has launched a $50,000-funded virtual reality experience showcasing its gold mining history, with multilingual and accessible visitor facilities supported through the Victorian government's Tiny Towns Fund. - Gemma Rendell and Darren Chester urge Gippslanders to add vegetables daily through new healthy eating campaign
The "Get the Edge. Eat More Veg" campaign launched in Sale, urging Gippslanders to add one extra vegetable served daily while supporting local growers, jobs and health. - Melina Bath condemned Labor over soaring vehicle thefts, with Victoria recording nearly twice New South Wales' victims
Melina Bath has condemned Labor over soaring vehicle thefts, citing Victoria's high theft rate and major increases across eastern Victoria, while calling for more police, stronger bail laws and tougher sentencing. - Maryvale Recreation Reserve completes $920,000 upgrade, enhancing accessibility, facilities, safety and recreation opportunities for the community
Maryvale Recreation Reserve has completed a $920,000 refurbishment, upgrading the Latrobe Cricket Club pavilion, Peter Siddle Oval, drainage, pathways and accessibility, as part of Latrobe City's broader $5 million program. - Labor government invests $750,000 to support young Gippslanders into education, training and employment opportunities
The Victorian Labor government is investing $750,000 in Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley, supporting 120 young people facing barriers to education, training and employment through 2028. - Have your say on the Planning Scheme Amendment C161egip - Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area (Revised) to unlock growth until 21 September 2026
East Gippsland Shire Council is simplifying planning controls in Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area, aiming to unlock housing growth, reduce red tape and support development over the next 30-plus years. - Melina Bath honours Colin "Stocky" Stockdale for 63 years of outstanding CFA service to South Gippsland community
Melina Bath congratulated Colin "Stocky" Stockdale on receiving the CFA's highest honour, recognising his 63 years of leadership, mentorship and dedicated service protecting South Gippsland communities.
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